Ukraine launches anti-terror operation in Donetsk

Acting President Turchynov announces 'anti-terror' operation in Donetsk, saying, “It will take place step-by-step, responsibly and thoroughly.”

KIEV - Ukraine’s acting President Oleksandr Turchynov ordered the launch of an anti-terrorist operation Tuesday in the north of Donetsk city, in eastern Ukraine.

During the sitting of parliament, Turchynov said that they will begin a military anti-terrorist operation in Donetsk, where pro-Russia separatists seized government buildings.

“It will take place step-by-step, responsibly and thoroughly”, he said.

Turchynov added that the aim of the operation is to protect Ukranian citizens and stop those who want to split Ukraine.

Up to 1,500 pro-Moscow protesters took control of administration buildings and security service offices in Donetsk, Kharkiv and Lugansk on April 6. The groups demanded referendums on joining the Russian Federation.

- International community blames Russia for east Ukraine tension -

Meanwhile, western powers blame Russia for the instability in the Russian-speaking parts of Ukraine where unidentified armed groups occupied some government buildings.

NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said Tuesday: "Russia should be part of the solution, not part of the problem.”

UK Foreign Secretary William Hague stated that Russia's actions make the situation in eastern Ukraine even more dangerous than before.

In addition on Monday, U.S. President Barack Obama called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to use his influence to restrain pro-Russian groups in Ukraine.

"The president expressed grave concern about Russian government support for the actions of armed, pro-Russian separatists who threaten to undermine and destabilize the government of Ukraine," the White House statement said.

The German government also blamed Russia for the tension in the region. "There are strong indications that armed groups who are active in eastern Ukraine received support from Russia," said Deputy Government spokesperson Christiane Wirtz on Monday.